Gas separation module for utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system

Abstract

A gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system comprises a solid oxide water electrolysis module that generates a produced gas, and a produced gas processing module receiving the produced gas from the solid oxide water electrolysis module. The produced gas processing module includes a first purity improving unit, a buffer tank, and a compressor provided between the first purity improving unit and the buffer tank. The first purity improving unit includes a first heat exchanger, and a first vessel connected to the first heat exchanger. The first heat exchanger is disposed at a higher position than the first vessel.

Description

[Rectified under Rule 91, 08.03.2024]GAS SEPARATION MODULE FOR UTILITY SCALE SOLID OXIDE WATER ELECTROLYSIS SYSTEM

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system, and specifically relates to a gas separation module applied to a solid oxide water electrolysis system that requires a small area and consumes few resources for system maintenance.

[0002] A water electrolysis system is a device that electrochemically reduces water and decomposes it into hydrogen and oxygen. Water electrolysis systems are attracting attention as an eco-friendly hydrogen energy technology because they use the opposite reaction of fuel cells.

[0003] Representative methods of electrolyzing water using a water electrolysis system include solid oxide water electrolysis (SOEC), polymer electrolyte water electrolysis (PEMEC), and alkaline water electrolysis (AEC). Among these, the alkaline water electrolysis method and the polymer electrolyte water electrolysis method have been commercialized, and related equipment has been developed to suit the characteristics of each water electrolysis method.

[0004] The solid oxide water electrolysis system has excellent efficiency, but is in the development stage due to technical difficulty. Furthermore, due to differences from other water electrolysis methods, peripheral equipment (BOP, Balance of Plant) specialized for large-capacity solid oxide water electrolysis systems is required.

[0005] The technical problem is to provide a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that requires a reduced installation area.

[0006] The technical problem is to provide a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system with reduced resources required for facility maintenance.

[0007] The technical problem is to provide a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that minimizes the pressure loss of produced gas produced through solid oxide water electrolysis by minimizing the pressure drop due to equipment operation.

[0008] However, the technical problem is not limited to the above disclosure.

[0009] In one aspect, a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system comprises a solid oxide water electrolysis module that generates a produced gas, and a produced gas processing module receiving the produced gas from the solid oxide water electrolysis module. The produced gas processing module includes a first purity improving unit, a buffer tank, and a compressor provided between the first purity improving unit and the buffer tank. The first purity improving unit includes a first heat exchanger, and a first vessel connected to the first heat exchanger. The first heat exchanger is disposed at a higher position than the first vessel.

[0010] The first heat exchanger and the first vessel overlap along a direction perpendicular to a ground.

[0011] The first vessel is disposed at a position shifted in the horizontal direction from an area where the first heat exchanger unit overlaps along a direction perpendicular to a ground.

[0012] The first vessel is configured to receive water and the produced gas provided from the first heat exchanger.

[0013] The water is configured to drain from the first vessel by gravity.

[0014] The gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system further comprises further comprises a drying unit provided between the compressor and the buffer tank.

[0015] The gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system further comprises a second purity improving unit provided between the compressor and the buffer tank. The second purity improving unit includes a second heat exchanger and a second vessel connected to the second heat exchanger. The second heat exchanger is disposed at a higher position than the second vessel.

[0016] The first heat exchanger and the first vessel overlap along a direction perpendicular to a ground.

[0017] The first vessel is disposed at a position shifted in the horizontal direction from an area where the first heat exchanger unit overlaps along a direction perpendicular to a ground.

[0018] This disclosure can provide a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that requires a reduced installation area.

[0019] This disclosure can provide a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system with reduced resources required for facility maintenance.

[0020] This disclosure can provide a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that minimizes the pressure loss of produced gas produced through solid oxide water electrolysis by minimizing the pressure drop due to equipment operation.

[0021] However, the effect of the invention is not limited to the disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of a gas separation module for the utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of FIG. 1.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the first heat exchanger of FIG. 2.

[0025] FIGS. 4 and 5 are diagrams showing some example embodiments of the first purity improving unit of FIG. 2.

[0026] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram of a gas separation module for the utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of FIG. 6.

[0028] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments.

[0029] FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram of a gas separation module for the utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of FIG. 8.

[0030] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments.

[0032] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments.

[0033] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments.

[0034] In one aspect, a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system comprises a solid oxide water electrolysis module that generates a produced gas, and a produced gas processing module receiving the produced gas from the solid oxide water electrolysis module. The produced gas processing module includes a first purity improving unit, a buffer tank, and a compressor provided between the first purity improving unit and the buffer tank. The first purity improving unit includes a first heat exchanger, and a first vessel connected to the first heat exchanger. The first heat exchanger is disposed at a higher position than the first vessel.

[0035] Hereinafter, the attached drawings will be referred to describe in detail the embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following drawings, the same reference sign refers to the same component, and the size of each component on the drawing may be exaggerated for clarity and convenience of description. On the other hand, the embodiments described below are only illustrative and can be variously modified from these embodiments.

[0036] Hereinafter, what is described as "phase" may include not only those that are directly above in contact but also those that are in contact with each other.

[0037] Singular expressions include plural expressions, unless the context clearly means otherwise. Also, when a part "contains" a component, it does not mean that it excludes other components, but that it may include more other components, unless specifically stated to the contrary.

[0038] In addition, terms such as "minor" described in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation.

[0039] Hereinafter, 'at least one of a, b, and c' should be understood to include 'only a', 'only b', 'only c', 'a and b', 'a and c', 'b and c', or 'a, b, and c'.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of a gas separation module for the utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the first heat exchanger of FIG. 2. FIGS. 4 and 5 are diagrams showing some example embodiments of the first purity improving unit of FIG. 2.

[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the gas separation module 1 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system may include a solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 and a produced gas processing module 10. The solid oxide electrolysis module 20 may include solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC). Solid oxide water electrolysis cells may include an anode and a cathode that face each other with an electrolyte membrane through which oxygen ions are conducted. When water vapor is supplied to the cathode of the solid oxide water electrolysis cells and the required voltage is applied to the anode and cathode, water vapor may be electrolyzed at the cathode to generate hydrogen gas. A portion of the water vapor supplied to the cathode may not be electrolyzed and may be supplied to the produced gas processing module 10 together with hydrogen gas. Hereinafter, hydrogen gas and water vapor supplied from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 to the produced gas processing module 10 are referred to as produced gas 30. The temperature and pressure of the produced gas 30 may change as it passes through various facilities within the produced gas processing module 10. An exemplary mass ratio of hydrogen gas and water vapor in the produced gas 30 supplied to the produced gas processing module 10 may be as follows.

[0042]

[0043] Mass of hydrogen gas:Mass of water vapor=21.8:78.2

[0044]

[0045] The produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may have a pressure within the operating pressure range of the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20. For example, the operating pressure range of the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may be 0 to 0.14 barg. However, the operating pressure range is not limited and may be determined depending on the solid oxide water electrolysis cells included in the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20. The operating pressure range of the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may be a range of pressure at which the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 can operate normally. For example, if the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 has a pressure outside the operating pressure range, the membranes of the solid oxide water electrolysis cells may be damaged. The produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may have a high temperature (eg, about 100 to 200 degrees Celsius).

[0046] The produced gas processing module 10 may include a first purity improving unit 100, a compressor 200, and a buffer tank 500. The first purity improving unit 100 may include a first heat exchanger 110 and a first vessel 120. A first low pressure transfer pipe 132 may be provided between the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 and the first heat exchanger 110. The first heat exchanger 110 may be connected to the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 through the first low pressure transfer pipe 132. The produced gas 30 may be supplied from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 to the first heat exchanger 110 through the first low pressure transfer pipe 132.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 3, the first heat exchanger 110 may have a shell and tube type heat exchanger in which a plurality of tubes 112 are disposed in an area surrounded by the shell 114. A low temperature fluid 40 may be provided inside the plurality of tubes 112, and the produced gas 30 may be provided outside the plurality of tubes 112. Produced gas 30 may be provided to the area 116 between the shell 114 and the plurality of tubes 112. The low temperature fluid 40 may be provided to the first heat exchanger 110 from outside the first heat exchanger 110 and transported along the plurality of tubes 112. For example, the low temperature fluid 40 may include coolant. Heat is exchanged between the produced gas 30 and the low temperature fluid 40 within the first heat exchanger 110, so that the temperature of the produced gas 30 may be lowered. For example, the temperature of the produced gas 30 may be lowered to 30 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius. The temperature of the low temperature fluid 40 may increase. In some example embodiments, the low temperature fluid 40 may be discharged to the outside of the first heat exchanger 110 and then cooled again to be reused in the first heat exchanger 110. As the temperature of the produced gas 30 decreases, some of the water vapor contained in the produced gas 30 may be liquefied to produce water. Accordingly, the purity of hydrogen gas contained in the produced gas 30 may increase. Water may move to the lower part of the first heat exchanger 110 by gravity.

[0048] The first vessel 120 may be configured to separate the produced gas 30 and water provided from the first heat exchanger 110. For example, water may collect in the lower part of the first vessel 120 by gravity, and the produced gas 30 may collect in the upper part of the first vessel 120. Water may be discharged out of the first vessel 120 through the first water discharge pipe 138 connected to the lower part of the first vessel 120 by gravity. Discharged water may be reused for various purposes. For example, the discharged water may be cooled and reused as the low temperature fluid 40. In some example embodiments, a piping system may be provided for reusing discharged water. The shape and location of the first water discharge pipe 138 are provided as an example. The shape and location of the first water discharge pipe 138 may be determined to discharge water out of the first vessel 120. The first vessel 120 may be provided at a lower height than the first heat exchanger 110. A multi-layer structure 60 configured to dispose the first heat exchanger 110 on the first vessel 120 may be provided. The first heat exchanger 110 may be located in the upper layer of the multi-layer structure 60, and the first vessel 120 may be located in the lower layer. The shape of the multi-layer structure 60 is not limited and may be determined as needed. As the first heat exchanger 110 and the first vessel 120 are disposed at different heights, the area required to install the first heat exchanger 110 and the first vessel 120 may be reduced. In some example embodiments, the first heat exchanger 110 and the first vessel 120 may be arranged along the vertical direction D1. The vertical direction D1 may be a direction opposite to the direction perpendicular to the ground 50. In some example embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, the first vessel 120 may be placed directly below the first heat exchanger 110. The first heat exchanger 110 and the first vessel 120 may overlap along the vertical direction D1. In some example embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5, the first vessel 120 may be disposed in a position shifted in the horizontal direction D2 from the area immediately below the first heat exchanger 110. The horizontal direction D2 may be a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction D1. The horizontal direction D2 shown is provided as an example. In another example, the horizontal direction D2 may be a direction that intersects the illustrated horizontal direction D2. In some example embodiments, the first vessel 120 may include a pressure gauge and a thermometer configured to measure the pressure and temperature inside the first vessel 120. The first vessel 120 may discharge the produced gas 30 through the third low pressure transfer pipe 136.

[0049] The second low pressure transfer pipe 134 may be provided between the first heat exchanger 110 and the first vessel 120. For example, one side of the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 may be connected to the lower part of the first heat exchanger 110, and the other side of the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 may be connected to the upper part of the first vessel 120. Water moving to the lower part of the first heat exchanger 110 may be transferred to the first vessel 120 through the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 using gravity. As shown in FIG. 4, when the first heat exchanger 110 and the first vessel 120 are arranged in the vertical direction D1, the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 may be extended in the vertical direction D1. However, if necessary, the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 may be composed of a part extending along the vertical direction and a part extending along the horizontal direction. As shown in FIG. 5, when the first vessel 120 is disposed in a position shifted in the horizontal direction D2 in the area immediately below the first heat exchanger 110, the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 may be composed of a vertical portion 134a extending along the vertical direction D1 and a horizontal portion 134b extending along the horizontal direction D2. However, in some example embodiments, the horizontal portion 134b may be inclined to have a height that gradually decreases along the water transport direction. Accordingly, water can flow smoothly within the second low pressure transfer pipe 134. The produced gas 30 may move from the first heat exchanger 110 to the first vessel 120 along the second low pressure transfer pipe 134.

[0050] The produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 has a high temperature of about 100 to 200 degrees Celsius. For the produced gas 30 to be supplied to the consumer, its temperature is required to be lowered. The temperature of the produced gas 30 may be lowered as it passes through the first heat exchanger 110. The produced gas 30 contains not only hydrogen gas but also a large amount of water vapor. Some of the water vapor contained in the produced gas 30 may be converted to water within the first heat exchanger 110. While the water vapor moves from the first heat exchanger 110 to the first vessel 120, another portion of the water vapor may contact the wall of the transfer pipe and turn into water. Unlike the present disclosure, when the first heat exchanger 110 and the first vessel 120 are arranged in the horizontal direction D2, the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 between the first heat exchanger 110 and the first vessel 120 is configured to extend in the horizontal direction D2. If the amount of water generated in the first heat exchanger 110 and the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 increases, the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 extending in the horizontal direction D2 may be clogged with water. Furthermore, the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 discharges the produced gas 30 at a pressure similar to atmospheric pressure, so it is difficult to push the water in the transfer pipe with the pressure of the produced gas 30. Therefore, time, manpower, and cost are consumed to solve the problem of the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 being clogged, and the treatment process of the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may not be performed smoothly.

[0051] The first heat exchanger 110 of the present disclosure may be placed at a higher position than the first vessel 120. Water generated in the first heat exchanger 110 and the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 can be smoothly transferred to the first vessel 120 by gravity. Accordingly, clogging of the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 by water may be prevented or alleviated, and the treatment process of the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 can be smoothly performed. Resources (eg, equipment, manpower, time, cost, etc.) to prevent the low pressure transfer pipe 134 from clogging can be reduced. Accordingly, a gas separation module 1 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that requires few resources to maintain the facility may be provided.

[0052] The compressor 200 may be connected to the third low pressure transfer pipe 136. The compressor 200 may be configured to receive the produced gas 30 and increase the pressure of the produced gas 30. For example, compressor 200 may include a liquid ring compressor, a screw compressor, a reciprocating compressor, or a centrifugal compressor. The pressure of the produced gas 30 may be increased by the compressor 200. The pressure of the produced gas 30 discharged from the compressor 200 may be 1 to 30 barg. For example, the pressure of produced gas 30 may be approximately 3.3 barg. However, the pressure of the produced gas 30 is not limited and may be determined as needed. The compressor 200 may provide the produced gas 30 to the buffer tank 500 through the first high pressure transfer pipe 202 and the second high pressure transfer pipe 404. A first control valve 406 may be provided between the first high pressure transfer pipe 202 and the second high pressure transfer pipe 404. In some example embodiments, the first control valve 404 may be configured to connect or block the first high pressure transfer pipe 202 and the second high pressure transfer pipe 404 based on information about the pressure and temperature inside the first vessel 120. For example, the information about the pressure and temperature inside the first vessel 120 may be provided from a pressure gauge and thermometer installed in the first vessel 120.

[0053] The first high pressure transfer pipe 202 and the second high pressure transfer pipe 404 may transport gas at a higher pressure than the first to third low pressure transfer pipes 132, 134, and 136. Accordingly, the first high pressure transfer pipe 202 and the second high pressure transfer pipe 404 may have a smaller diameter than the first to third low pressure transfer pipes 132, 134, and 136.

[0054] The buffer tank 500 may be configured to temporarily store the produced gas 30 and supply the stored produced gas 30 to a consumer. For example, the stored produced gas 30 may be supplied to a consumer through the supply pipe 502.

[0055] The first heat exchanger 110 and the first vessel 120 of the present disclosure can be arranged along the vertical direction D1 to provide a gas separation module 1 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system requiring a small installation area. Water generated in the first heat exchanger 110 and the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 may be smoothly transferred to the first vessel 120 by gravity. Accordingly, clogging of the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 by water can be prevented or alleviated, and the treatment process of the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 can be smoothly performed. Resources (eg, equipment, manpower, time, cost, etc.) to prevent the low pressure transfer pipe 134 from clogging can be reduced. Accordingly, a gas separation module 1 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that requires few resources to maintain the facility can be provided.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments. FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram of a gas separation module for the utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of FIG. 6. For brevity of explanation, differences from those described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 are mainly explained.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the gas separation module 2 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system may include a solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 and a produced gas processing module 10. Unlike what is described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5, the produced gas processing module 10 may further include a drying unit 400.

[0058] The drying unit 400 may be provided between the compressor 200 and the buffer tank 500. The drying unit 400 may be configured to receive the produced gas 30 from the compressor 200 through the first low pressure transfer pipe 202. The first low pressure transfer pipe 202 may be configured to connect the compressor 200 and the dryer 400. The drying unit 400 may be configured to dry the produced gas 30 supplied from the compressor 200. In some example embodiments, the dryer 400 may include an adsorption dryer. The drying unit 400 may include a plurality of towers filled with an adsorbent that absorbs moisture. A plurality of towers may alternately perform the moisture absorption process and the regeneration process. For example, when a plurality of towers consists of a first tower and a second tower, while the first tower absorbs water vapor of the produced gas 30, the second tower may perform a regeneration process to discharge the absorbed moisture. When the adsorbent in the first tower is saturated with adsorbed water, the first tower may perform a regeneration process to discharge moisture, and the second tower may absorb water vapor of the produced gas 30. The first tower and the second tower may alternately perform a moisture absorption process and a regeneration process. For example, the regeneration process may be performed using an external heat source. The concentration of water vapor in the produced gas 30 may be further lowered by the drying unit 400. In some example embodiments, when the produced gas 30 discharged from the compressor 200 has a water vapor concentration higher than a required level, the dryer 400 may lower the concentration of water vapor in the produced gas 30 to the required level. For example, the required concentration of water vapor may be less than 5 ppm, which is the standard according to ISO 14687-2017 SAE J2719-202003, an international standard for using hydrogen as a fuel. The drying unit 400 may provide the produced gas 30 to the buffer tank 500 through the third high pressure transfer pipe 402 and the second high pressure transfer pipe 404.

[0059] The first control valve 406 may be provided between the third high pressure transfer pipe 402 and the second high pressure transfer pipe 404. In some example embodiments, the first control valve 404 may be configured to connect or block the third high pressure transfer pipe 402 and the second high pressure transfer pipe 404 based on information about the pressure and temperature inside the first vessel 120 provided from the pressure gauge and thermometer installed in the first vessel 120.

[0060] The first to third high pressure transfer pipes 202, 404, and 402 may transfer higher pressure gas than the first to third low pressure transfer pipes 132, 134, and 136. The first to third high pressure transfer pipes 202, 404, and 402 may have a smaller diameter than the first to third low pressure transfer pipes 132, 134, and 136.

[0061] The present disclosure may provide a gas separation module 2 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that requires a small installation area, in which the first heat exchanger 110 and the first vessel 120 are arranged along the vertical direction D1. Water generated in the first heat exchanger 110 and the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 may be smoothly transferred to the first vessel 120 by gravity. Accordingly, clogging of the low pressure transfer pipe 134 by water can be prevented or alleviated, and the treatment process of the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 can be smoothly performed. Resources (eg, equipment, manpower, time, cost, etc.) to prevent the low pressure transfer pipe 134 from clogging can be reduced. Accordingly, a gas separation module 2 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that requires few resources to maintain the facility can be provided. A gas separation module 2 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that can easily lower the concentration of water vapor in the produced gas 30 to a required level using the drying unit 400 may be provided.

[0062] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments. FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram of a gas separation module for the utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of FIG. 8. For brevity of explanation, differences from those described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 are mainly explained.

[0063] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the gas separation module 3 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system may include a solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 and a produced gas processing module 10. The produced gas processing module 10 may further include a second purity improving unit 300.

[0064] The second purity improving unit 300 may be provided between the compressor 200 and the drying unit 400. The second purity improving unit 300 may include a second heat exchanger 310 and a second vessel 320. A first high pressure transfer pipe 202 may be provided between the second heat exchanger 310 and the compressor 200. The second heat exchanger 310 may be connected to the compressor 200 through the first high pressure transfer pipe 202. The produced gas 30 may be supplied from the compressor 200 to the second heat exchanger 310 through the first high pressure transfer pipe 202. The second heat exchanger 310 may include, for example, a shell and tube type heat exchanger in which a plurality of tubes are disposed in an area surrounded by a shell. A low temperature fluid 40 may be provided inside the plurality of tubes, and the produced gas 30 may be provided outside the plurality of tubes. In some example embodiments, the second heat exchanger 310 may be substantially the same as the first heat exchanger 110. The produced gas 30, which is a high temperature fluid, may be provided to the area between the shell and the plurality of tubes. The low temperature fluid 40 may be provided to the second heat exchanger 310 from outside the second heat exchanger 310 and transported along the plurality of tubes 312. For example, the low temperature fluid 40 may include coolant. Heat is exchanged between the produced gas 30 and the low temperature fluid 40 within the second heat exchanger 310, so that the temperature of the produced gas 30 may be lowered. For example, the temperature of the produced gas 30 may be lowered to 30 to 40 degrees Celsius. The temperature of the low temperature fluid 40 may increase. In some example embodiments, the low temperature fluid 40 may be discharged to the outside of the second heat exchanger 310 and then cooled again to be reused in the second heat exchanger 210. As the temperature of the produced gas 30 decreases, some of the water vapor contained in the produced gas 30 may be liquefied to produce water. Accordingly, the purity of hydrogen gas contained in the produced gas 30 may increase. Water may move to the lower part of the second heat exchanger 310 by gravity.

[0065] The second vessel 320 may be configured to separate the produced gas 30 and water provided from the second heat exchanger 310. For example, water may collect in the lower part of the second vessel 320 by gravity, and the produced gas 30 may collect in the upper part of the second vessel 320. Water may be discharged to the outside of the second vessel 320 through the second water discharge pipe 336 connected to the lower part of the second vessel 320 by gravity. The shape and location of the second water discharge pipe 336 are provided as an example. The shape and location of the second water discharge pipe 336 may be determined to discharge water out of the second vessel 320. The second vessel 320 may be provided at a lower height than the second heat exchanger 310. A multi-layer structure 60 configured to dispose the second heat exchanger 310 on the second vessel 320 may be provided. The second heat exchanger 310 may be located in the upper layer of the multi-layer structure 60, and the second vessel 320 may be located in the lower layer. The shape of the multi-layer structure 60 is not limited and may be determined as needed. In some example embodiments, the second heat exchanger 310 and the second vessel 320 may be arranged along the vertical direction D1. For example, the second vessel 320 may be placed directly below the second heat exchanger 310. In some example embodiments, the second vessel 320 may be disposed in a position shifted in the horizontal direction D2 in the area immediately below the second heat exchanger 310. In some example embodiments, the second vessel 320 may include a pressure gauge and a thermometer configured to measure the pressure and temperature inside the second vessel 320. The second vessel 320 may discharge the produced gas 30 through the fifth high pressure transfer pipe 334.

[0066] The fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 may be provided between the second heat exchanger 310 and the second vessel 320. For example, one side of the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 may be connected to the lower part of the second heat exchanger 310, and the other side of the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 may be connected to the upper part of the second vessel 320. Water moving to the lower part of the second heat exchanger 310 may be transferred to the second vessel 320 through the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 using gravity. When the second heat exchanger 310 and the second vessel 320 are arranged in the vertical direction D1, the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 may extend in the vertical direction D1. However, if necessary, the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 may be composed of a part extending along the vertical direction and a part extending along the horizontal direction. When the second vessel 320 is disposed in a position shifted in the horizontal direction D2 in the area immediately below the second heat exchanger 310, the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 may be composed of a part extending along the vertical direction D1 and a part extending along the horizontal direction D2. However, in some example embodiments, the portion extending along the horizontal direction D2 may be inclined to have a height that gradually decreases along the water transport direction. Accordingly, water may flow smoothly within the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332. The produced gas 30 may move from the second heat exchanger 310 to the second vessel 320 along the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332.

[0067] The temperature of the produced gas 30 may be lowered as it passes through the second heat exchanger 310. The produced gas 30 contains not only hydrogen gas but also a large amount of water vapor. Some of the water vapor contained in the produced gas 30 may be converted to water within the second heat exchanger 310. While the water vapor moves from the second heat exchanger 310 to the second vessel 320, another portion of the water vapor may contact the wall of the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 and turn into water. When the second heat exchanger 310 and the second vessel 320 are arranged in the horizontal direction D2, the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 between the second heat exchanger 310 and the second vessel 320 may be configured to extend in the horizontal direction D2. When the amount of water generated in the second heat exchanger 310 and the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 increases, the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 extending in the horizontal direction D2 may be clogged with water. Time, manpower, and cost can be consumed to solve the problem of the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 being clogged, and the treatment process of the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 cannot be performed smoothly.

[0068] The second heat exchanger 310 of the present disclosure may be placed at a higher position than the second vessel 320. Water generated in the second heat exchanger 310 and the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 can be smoothly transferred to the second vessel 320 by gravity. Accordingly, clogging of the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 by water can be prevented or alleviated, and the treatment process of the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module can be smoothly performed.

[0069] The drying unit 400 may be provided between the second purity improving unit 30 and the buffer tank 500. The drying unit 400 may be configured to receive the produced gas 30 from the second purity improving unit 300 through the fifth high pressure transfer pipe 334. The drying unit 400 may be configured to dry the produced gas 30 supplied from the second purity improving unit 300. In some example embodiments, when the produced gas 30 discharged from the second purity improving unit 300 has a water vapor concentration higher than the required level, the drying unit 400 may adjust the concentration of water vapor in the produced gas 30 to the required level. For example, the required concentration of water vapor may be less than 5 ppm, which is the standard according to ISO 14687-2017 SAE J2719-202003, an international standard for using hydrogen as a fuel.

[0070] The first to fifth high pressure transfer pipes 202, 404, 402, 332, and 334 may transport gas at a higher pressure than the first to third low pressure transfer pipes 132, 134, and 136. Accordingly, the first to fifth high pressure transfer pipes 202, 404, 402, 332, and 334 may have a smaller diameter than the first to third low pressure transfer pipes 132, 134, and 136.

[0071] The first control valve 404 may be configured to open and close the third transfer pipe 402 based on information about the pressure and temperature inside the first vessel 120 provided from the pressure gauge and thermometer installed in the first vessel 120 and information about the pressure and temperature inside the second vessel 320 provided from the pressure gauge and thermometer installed in the second vessel 320.

[0072] In the present disclosure, the first heat exchanger 110 and the first vessel 120 may be arranged along the vertical direction D1, and the second heat exchanger 310 and the second vessel 320 may be arranged along the vertical direction D1. Accordingly, a gas separation module 3 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system requiring a reduced installation area may be provided. Water generated in the first heat exchanger 110 and the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 may be smoothly transferred to the first vessel 120 by gravity. Accordingly, clogging of the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 by water can be prevented or alleviated, and the treatment process of the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 can be smoothly performed. Water generated in the second heat exchanger 310 and the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 can be smoothly transferred to the second vessel 320 by gravity. Accordingly, clogging of the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 by water can be prevented or alleviated, and the treatment process of the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 can be smoothly performed. Resources (eg, equipment, manpower, time, cost, etc.) to prevent the second low pressure transfer pipe 134 and the fourth high pressure transfer pipe 332 from being blocked can be reduced. Accordingly, a gas separation module 3 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that requires small resources to maintain the facility may be provided. Furthermore, a gas separation module 3 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that can easily lower the concentration of water vapor in the produced gas 30 to the required level using the second purity improving unit 300 may be provided.

[0073]

[0074] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments. For brevity of explanation, differences from those described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 are mainly explained.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 10, a gas separation module 4 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system may be provided. The gas separation module 4 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system may include a solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 and a produced gas processing module 10. Unlike what is explained with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5, a sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602, a fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604, and a second control valve 606 may be provided. The sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 may be connected to the first high pressure transfer pipe 202. The sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 may be configured to receive the high pressure produced gas 30 provided from the compressor 200. In some example embodiments, the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 may have substantially the same diameter as the first high pressure transfer pipe 202 and the second high pressure transfer pipe 404.

[0076] The second control valve 606 may be provided between the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604. The second control valve 606 may be configured to lower the pressure of the high pressure produced gas 30 provided from the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 so that the high pressure produced gas 30 has a low pressure at a required level. Accordingly, low pressure produced gas 30 may be provided to the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604.

[0077] The fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 may be connected to the first heat exchanger 110. The fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 may be configured to provide low pressure produced gas 30 to the first heat exchanger 110. In some example embodiments, the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 may have substantially the same diameter as the first to third low pressure transfer pipes 132, 134, and 136. The fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 may transport produced gas 30 having a lower pressure than the produced gas 30 transported by the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602. In some example embodiments, the second control valve 606 and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 may be included in the first purity improving unit 100. The second control valve 606 and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 may be disposed adjacent to the first heat exchanger 110. The second control valve 606 and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 may be provided on the upper layer of the multi-layer structure shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 (60 in FIGS. 4 and 5).

[0078] In some example embodiments, the second control valve 606 and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 may be packaged with the first heat exchanger 110. For example, the first heat exchanger 110, the second control valve 606, and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 may be formed on one frame (or one skid) in a manufacturing plant and then transported to the construction site of the gas separation module 4 for a utility scale water electrolysis system. In some example embodiments, after the first heat exchanger 110, the second control valve 606, and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 are installed at the construction site of the gas separation module 4 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system, a sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 having a small diameter may be installed between the second control valve 606 and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604. The sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 may be arranged to extend along the ground.

[0079] Since the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 has a larger diameter than the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602, the required construction cost may increase as the required length of the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 increases. Furthermore, when the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 is formed on the ground, it may become a factor that obstructs the mobility of workers at the construction site of the gas separation module 4 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system.

[0080] As the first heat exchanger 110, the second control valve 606, and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 of the present disclosure may be formed as a package, the construction time, construction cost, and required manpower of the gas separation module 4 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system can be reduced.

[0081] The present disclosure may provide the gas separation module 4 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system in which the length of the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 disposed between the second control valve 606 and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 may be formed to be relatively short. Therefore, an increase in construction costs can be prevented. In the present disclosure, a decrease in the worker's mobility by placing the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 with a relatively small diameter rather than the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 with a relatively large diameter on the ground can be prevented.

[0082] In some cases, operation of the buffer tank 500 may be stopped for maintenance or repair of the buffer tank 500. When the buffer tank 500 is shut down, the supply of the produced gas 30 to the buffer tank 500 is also stopped. In order to not supply the produced gas 30 to the buffer tank 500, the operation of the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 is also stopped. Accordingly, additional resources (eg, time and electricity) required for restarting the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 are unnecessarily consumed.

[0083] In the present disclosure, when the operation of the buffer tank 500 is stopped, the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may be operated. For example, the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may be operated at a minimum level. The produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may circulate between the facilities of the produced gas processing module 10 disposed in front of the buffer tank 500. For example, the first control valve 406 may be closed and the second control valve 606 may be open. The high pressure produced gas 30 discharged from the compressor 200 may be provided back into the first heat exchanger 110 through the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604. Circulation of the produced gas 30 may be performed until maintenance or repair work on the buffer tank 500 is completed. Even if the operation of the buffer tank 500 is stopped, the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may continue to operate. Accordingly, additional resources (eg, time and electricity) required for restarting the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may not be unnecessarily consumed.

[0084] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments. For brevity of explanation, content that is substantially the same as that described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 and that with reference to FIG. 10 may not be described.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 11, a gas separation module 5 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system may be provided. The gas separation module 5 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system may include a solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 and a produced gas processing module 10. Unlike what is described with reference to FIG. 10, a drying unit 400 may be provided between the compressor 200 and the buffer tank 500. The drying unit 400 may be substantially the same as the drying unit 400 described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. The sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 may be connected to the first high pressure transfer pipe 202 provided between the compressor 200 and the drying unit 400.

[0086] As the first heat exchanger 110, the second control valve 606, and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 of the present disclosure are formed into a package, time, construction costs, and manpower requirements of the gas separation module 5 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system can be reduced.

[0087] The present disclosure may provide a gas separation module 5 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that may form the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 to be relatively short in length. For example, the length of the fourth low-pressure transfer pipe 604 may be relatively short as the second control valve 606 and the fourth low-pressure transfer pipe 604 are disposed adjacent to the first heat exchanger 110. Therefore, an increase in construction costs can be prevented. In the present disclosure, the mobility of workers may not be obstructed by arranging the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 with a relatively small diameter rather than the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 with a relatively large diameter on the ground.

[0088] In the present disclosure, when the drying unit 400 is stopped, the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may operate at a minimum level, and the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may circulate between the facilities of the produced gas processing module 10 disposed in front of the drying unit 400. For example, the first control valve 406 may be closed and the second control valve 606 may be open. The high pressure produced gas 30 discharged from the compressor 200 may be injected back into the first heat exchanger 110 through the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604. Circulation of the produced gas 30 may be performed until maintenance or repair work on the drying unit 400 is completed. In some example embodiments, even during maintenance or repair work on the buffer tank 500, the produced gas 30 may be circulated between the facilities of the produced gas processing module 10 disposed in front of the dryer 400. For example, operation of the drying unit 400 may be stopped, the first control valve 406 may be closed, and the second control valve 606 may be opened. Even if the operation of the drying unit 400 or the buffer tank 500 is stopped, the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may continue to operate. Accordingly, additional resources (eg, time and electricity) required for restarting the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may not be unnecessarily consumed.

[0089] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments. For brevity of explanation, content that is substantially the same as that described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9 and that described with reference to FIG. 11 may not be described.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 12, a gas separation module 6 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system may be provided. The gas separation module 6 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system may include a solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 and a produced gas processing module 10. Unlike what is described with reference to FIG. 11, a second purity improving unit 300 may be provided between the compressor 200 and the drying unit 400. The second purity improving unit 300 may be substantially the same as the second purity improving unit 300 described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. The sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 may be connected to the first high pressure transfer pipe 202 provided between the compressor 200 and the second purity improving unit 300.

[0091] As the first heat exchanger 110, the second control valve 606, and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 of the present disclosure are formed into a package, time, construction costs, and manpower requirements of the gas separation module 6 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system can be reduced.

[0092] The present disclosure may provide a gas separation module 6 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that may form the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 to be relatively short in length. For example, the length of the fourth low-pressure transfer pipe 604 may be relatively short as the second control valve 606 and the fourth low-pressure transfer pipe 604 are disposed adjacent to the first heat exchanger 110. Therefore, an increase in construction costs can be prevented. In the present disclosure, the mobility of workers may not be obstructed by arranging the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 with a relatively small diameter rather than the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 with a relatively large diameter on the ground.

[0093] In the present disclosure, when the drying unit 400 is stopped, the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 is operated at a minimum level, and the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may circulate between the facilities of the produced gas processing module 10 disposed in front of the drying unit 400. For example, the first control valve 406 may be closed and the second control valve 606 may be open. The high pressure produced gas 30 discharged from the compressor 200 may be injected back into the first heat exchanger 110 through the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604. Circulation of the produced gas 30 may be performed until maintenance or repair work on the drying unit 400 is completed. In some example embodiments, even during maintenance or repair work on the buffer tank 500, the produced gas 30 may be circulated between the facilities of the produced gas processing module 10 disposed in front of the dryer 400. For example, operation of the drying unit 400 may be stopped, the first control valve 406 may be closed, and the second control valve 606 may be opened. Even if the operation of the drying unit 400 or the buffer tank 500 is stopped, the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 can continue to operate. Accordingly, additional resources (eg, time and electricity) required for restarting the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may not be unnecessarily consumed.

[0094] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system according to example embodiments. For brevity of explanation, differences from those described with reference to FIG. 12 may be explained.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 13, a gas separation module 7 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system may be provided. The gas separation module 7 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system may include a solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 and a produced gas processing module 10. Unlike what is explained with reference to FIG. 12, the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 may be connected to the fifth high pressure transfer pipe 334 provided between the second purity improving unit 300 and the drying unit 400. The fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 may be connected to the third low pressure transfer pipe 136 between the first vessel 120 and the compressor 200.

[0096] As the first heat exchanger 110, the second control valve 606, and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 of the present disclosure are formed into a package, time, construction costs, and manpower requirements of the gas separation module 7 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system can be reduced.

[0097] The present disclosure may provide a gas separation module 7 for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system that may form the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 to be relatively short in length. For example, the length of the fourth low-pressure transfer pipe 604 may be relatively short as the second control valve 606 and the fourth low-pressure transfer pipe 604 are disposed adjacent to the first heat exchanger 110. Therefore, an increase in construction costs can be prevented. In the present disclosure, the mobility of workers may not be obstructed by arranging the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 with a relatively small diameter rather than the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604 with a relatively large diameter on the ground.

[0098] In the present disclosure, when the buffer tank 500 is stopped, the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 is operated at a minimum level, and the produced gas 30 discharged from the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may circulate between the facilities of the produced gas processing module 10 disposed in front of the drying unit 400. For example, the first control valve 406 may be closed and the second control valve 606 may be open. The high pressure produced gas 30 discharged from the second vessel 320 may be injected back into the compressor 200 through the sixth high pressure transfer pipe 602 and the fourth low pressure transfer pipe 604. Circulation of the produced gas 30 may be performed until maintenance or repair work on the drying unit 400 is completed. In some example embodiments, even during maintenance or repair work on the buffer tank 500, the produced gas 30 may be circulated between the facilities of the produced gas processing module 10 disposed in front of the dryer 400. For example, operation of the drying unit 400 may be stopped, the first control valve 406 may be closed, and the second control valve 606 may be opened. Even if the operation of the drying unit 400 or the buffer tank 500 is stopped, the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 can continue to operate. Accordingly, additional resources (eg, time and electricity) required for restarting the solid oxide water electrolysis module 20 may not be unnecessarily consumed.

[0099]

[0100] The above description of embodiments of the technical idea of the present disclosure provides examples for explaining the technical idea of the present disclosure. Therefore, the technical idea of the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made by combining the above embodiments by those skilled in the art within the technical idea of the present disclosure.

Claims

1.A gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system comprising:a solid oxide water electrolysis module that generates a produced gas; anda produced gas processing module receiving the produced gas from the solid oxide water electrolysis module,wherein the produced gas processing module includes a first purity improving unit, a buffer tank, and a compressor provided between the first purity improving unit and the buffer tank,wherein the first purity improving unit includes a first heat exchanger, and a first vessel connected to the first heat exchanger,wherein the first heat exchanger is disposed at a higher position than the first vessel.2.The gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of claim 1, wherein the first heat exchanger and the first vessel overlap along a direction perpendicular to a ground.3.The gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of claim 1, wherein the first vessel is disposed at a position shifted in the horizontal direction from an area where the first heat exchanger unit overlaps along a direction perpendicular to a ground.4.The gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of claim 1, wherein the first vessel is configured to receive water and the produced gas provided from the first heat exchanger.5.The gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of claim 4, wherein the water is configured to drain from the first vessel by gravity.6.The gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of claim 1, further comprising:A drying unit provided between the compressor and the buffer tank.7.The gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of claim 1, further comprising:a second purity improving unit provided between the compressor and the buffer tank,wherein the second purity improving unit includes a second heat exchanger and a second vessel connected to the second heat exchanger,wherein the second heat exchanger is disposed at a higher position than the second vessel.8.The gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of claim 7, wherein the first heat exchanger and the first vessel overlap along a direction perpendicular to a ground.9.The gas separation module for a utility scale solid oxide water electrolysis system of claim 7, wherein the first vessel is disposed at a position shifted in the horizontal direction from an area where the first heat exchanger unit overlaps along a direction perpendicular to a ground.

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